JCB releases upgraded JZ140 excavator

JCB has released an upgraded version of its JZ140 excavator that it says is just two-thirds of the length of a conventional machine, allowing work to be performed on the tightest of job sites.

A redesigned body with a compact counterweight and revised engine positioning sees the overall length of the excavator reduced by 29 percent over conventional models of the same weight. The new design results in greatly reduced tail-swing allowing easy manoeuvrability in confined spaces.

"The machine has built on what was already a solid base for our excavator product range, and with the reduced tail-swing we’re seeing zero compromise on dig performance and stability, making it a highly competitive product in the Australian market," JCB CEA national product manager Deon Cope says.

The excavator has a 72kW JCB EcoMax engine, configured to US Tier 4i emissions standards. JCB says the engine has a 5 percent improvement in fuel efficiency over the standard model. The engine’s position and the redesigned counterweight also give the machine a high degree of stability, as the centre of gravity is lowered. Stability is further enhanced by the excavator’s fully welded ‘X’ type frame.

The redesigned ROPS/TOPS cab features wrap-around tinted windows and front, side and roof lights for maximum visibility. The cab is air-conditioned and has a fully-adjustable deluxe suspension seat with armrest adjustment and backrest decline. A 7-inch full colour monitor on the dash displays vital machine information.

The JZ140 is connected to JCB’s range of monitoring and productivity systems including the SMART system that provides the operator with engine oil and coolant information, allowing daily checks to be completed from within the cab. The machine is also connected to JCB’s LiveLink system, which allows management to monitor progress from off-site.